Pod pals

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Kinda freaky that there's so much focus on one product, but this
iPod buyers' guide from the iPod Lounge puts into perspective the
obsession of the iPod set. iPod Lounge is an independent
Californian-based site steeped in everything iPod: news, reviews,
forums and, of course, the players, accessories and software. The
guide includes more than 200 accessories, such as jogging sleeves,
speakers, headphones and printable tattoos, with advice on making
the most of your player and free software. It also reviews the new
iPod Photo with the colour interface.

The accordion normally conjures up rustic images of European
social gatherings or perhaps a busker on a street corner. It's not
the first musical instrument you'd think of as digital. Which is
why Roland claims to be the first to integrate digital technology
into the traditional squeezebox design. Roland has a couple of
models - the FR-7 and FR-5 - with 22 orchestral sounds and seven
orchestral bass sounds that can be mixed with traditional accordion
sounds. The FR-7 also has built-in speakers to really get the polka
rocking.

The ultimate battery charger for travellers armed to the teeth
with electronic gadgets: a backpack with three robust, lightweight,
waterproof solar panels that generate up to four watts of power,
with a lithium-ion battery pack as well. As with solar heating, the
battery stores energy and uses it only when you need it. The makers
claim there is enough oomph to fire up a mobile phone, camera, PDA
or an iPod, but draws the line at laptops. The battery pack can
also be charged with an AC travel charger or a car charger.